Driving in Reverse When operating in reverse, avoid sharp turns and backing down a hill. When using reverse, follow these guidelines: 2. Keep speed slow while maintaining momentum. 3. Make sure you have a way out on the other side of the water. 1. Back up slowly. It’s hard to see behind you. 4. Once you’ve cleared the water, briefly apply the brakes to make sure they work. NOTE: Avoid sudden braking while backing up. NOTE: Light pedal pressure or pumping the brakes for a short dis- tance will aid in drying the brakes. 2. If possible, it is advisable to have someone “spotting” for you while backing up. ! WARNING 3.
If you are unsure of what is behind the vehicle, place the transmission in park and get out and inspect the area behind. Do not operate this vehicle on a fro- zen body of water unless you have first verified the ice is sufficiently thick to support the vehicle, cargo, and participants. The vehicle could break through the ice causing seri- ous injury or death. ! WARNING Never activate the override while the throttle is open as a loss of control may result. Use caution when using the override switch as reverse speed can greatly increase. Crossing Roads It may be necessary to cross a road or highway. If so, note the following guide- lines.
Skidding or Sliding If you lose control after hitting sand, ice, mud, or water, follow these guidelines: 1. Stop completely on the shoulder of the road. 1. Turn the steering wheel into the direc- tion of the slide. 2. Check both directions for traffic. 3. Crossing near a blind corner or inter- section is dangerous; avoid it if at all possible. 2. Keep your foot off the brake until you’re out of the skid. 4. Drive straight across to the opposite shoulder. 3. Stop and shift into four-wheel drive. Crossing Water This vehicle can only operate in water up to its floorboard. Stay away from fast moving rivers. This vehicle’s tires can be buoyant.
In deep water, the vehicle may lose traction due to floating. 5. Take into account that this vehicle could stall while crossing; give your- self enough time to get off the road. 6. You have to assume that oncoming cars don’t see you, and if they do, they won’t be able to predict your actions. 1. Physically check the depth and cur- rent of the water, especially if you can’t see the bottom. Also, check for boulders, logs, or any other hidden obstacles. 7. It’s illegal to cross public roads in some places. Know your local laws. 22